Callis Grange Nursery and Infant School in Broadstairs is celebrating after being awarded a prestigious Green Flag Award with distinction in recognition of its commitment to environmental sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
The Green Flag Award, an internationally recognised accreditation for schools demonstrating excellence in environmental action and education, recognises the dedication of pupils, staff and the wider school community in creating a greener future.
The distinction follows a year of successful environmental projects led by the school’s dedicated Eco Committee. Meeting weekly with Eco Lead Rachel MacFarlan, committee members play a vital role in planning environmental initiatives, organising activities and helping to care for both the school and the local community. Through these regular meetings, pupils are empowered to share ideas, take responsibility for projects and become active environmental champions.
Children have been actively involved in a range of initiatives designed to improve both the school environment and the local community. Regular litter picks around the school grounds and surrounding area have encouraged pupils to take pride in their environment, while a school-wide “Clean and Green” initiative has promoted sustainable habits and environmental responsibility across all year groups.
The children’s creativity has also played an important role in the school’s eco efforts. Pupils designed and made recycled decorations, which were sold at the school’s Christmas Fair, helping to raise awareness of the importance of reusing materials while supporting school activities.
One of the school’s most exciting recent projects has been the start of a new sensory garden in the Early Years outdoor area. Supported by a gardening grant and the generous assistance of Young’s Nursery, Broadstairs, the garden is being developed as a space where children can explore nature, engage their senses and learn about plants and wildlife.
Pupils also take an active role in caring for the school grounds throughout the year. Their commitment to supporting local wildlife has recently included the installation of a new hedgehog house, providing a safe habitat for one of Britain’s best-loved but increasingly vulnerable animals.
The award highlights not only the practical environmental improvements made by the school, but also its commitment to helping children develop an understanding of sustainability, conservation and environmental stewardship from an early age.
The school thanked all pupils, staff, families and community partners, including Broadstairs Town Team, Thanet District Council and Young’s Nursery, for their support in helping achieve this recognition.
